By Lubem Gena
There are some friendships in life that are more than just relationships; they are life-defining experiences. One such friendship I was blessed to have was with Desmond Chia, fondly known as Chester. As I sit down to reflect on the man he was and the bond we shared, I realize how deeply he impacted my life. It is with a heavy heart that I write this tribute to a dear friend who is no longer with us, but whose spirit and memories will always live on. May his soul rest in peace.
The Bond We Shared
Chester was one of those rare individuals who knew how to brighten up a room with his energy. His laughter was infectious, and his presence was always reassuring. We first met in what could be considered ordinary circumstances, but our friendship was anything but ordinary. From the very start, Chester had a way of making everyone feel like they were the most important person in the world when he spoke to them. And with me, he gave me a nickname that I will never forget—THE MEDIA.
Why He Called Me “THE MEDIA”
I can still hear Chester’s voice, playfully calling out, “THE MEDIA!” every time he saw me. It was his personal way of recognizing my passion for storytelling, journalistic disposition my curiosity about the world, and my knack for always being in the know of what happens around me and even beyond. Chester had this uncanny ability to give people names that reflected not just what they did but who they were. He saw me as someone who could capture moments, tell stories, and communicate with the world, just like the media does.
The nickname was more than a label—it was Chester’s way of appreciating who I was and what I loved to do. He had a unique perspective on people, and his nicknames always carried a sense of affection and insight. Being called “THE MEDIA” by Chester was not only a playful jest; it was a recognition of the connection we had and his understanding of my role in our circle of friends.
Chester’s Legacy
Desmond Chia, or Chester as many of us knew him, was much more than his jokes and playful banter. He was a man of depth, someone who cared deeply for those around him. He was always the first to lend a hand, whether you needed support in a tough time or simply a shoulder to lean on. His kindness was boundless, and his generosity was unmatched.
He was also a man of great wisdom. Chester had a way of offering advice that was neither condescending nor intrusive, but exactly what you needed to hear. He could see through the noise of life and offer clarity in moments of confusion. For those of us lucky enough to call him a friend, his words often served as a guiding light.
A Final Farewell
As I say my final goodbye to Chester, I am filled with a mixture of sadness and gratitude. Sadness because I will never again hear him call out “THE MEDIA” or share a conversation that only he could make so meaningful. But gratitude, because I had the privilege of knowing a soul as beautiful as Chester’s.
Chester was more than a friend; he was a brother in every sense of the word. His spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.
Sadly, this young and energetic guy, will, this weekend, be buried in his village, somewhere in Vandeikya local government area of Benue state. Rest in peace, Desmond Chia, my dear brother and friend Chester. You will never be forgotten.
We owe you a duty to take care of your 9 year kid and pregnant wife. Adieu.
Lubem Gena lives and work in Abuja as a Legislative Assistant in the National Assembly and also publish News Headquarters online newspaper
